A legendary fundraiser who has collected hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity has turned 90.

Sittingbourne’s much-loved ‘Whistling Postman’ Dale Howting celebrated his birthday at The Bay Leaf Cafè in Roman Square.

Around 25 friends packed into the eatery at 4pm on Wednesday, September 11 to mark the milestone where he cut a cake with a picture of himself from when he hit 80.

Friend and cafe owner, Joanne Povey, organised the party with her staff and put on a spread of cakes, sandwiches, sausages rolls and teas and coffees.

Her favourite memory of Dale is seeing him dance “all night long” during his 80th birthday celebrations.

The charity champion, who is usually found collecting donations for good causes on his mobility scooter in the High Street by Poundland, received plenty of cards and gifts.

He has been fundraising since 1977 and has previously been recognised with a Lifetime Achievement plaque presented to him by Swale council.

Last year Dale raised £7,600 for a variety of charities despite many obstacles – taking the total to £324,600.

But he has been missing from the town centre after suffering a fall in his home and having to be taken to Medway hospital in July.

The British Empire Medal holder was then taken to the frailty unit

at Sheppey Community Hospital in Minster before being moved to Grafton Lodge – a residential, dementia and respite care home for the elderly in Strood.

After six weeks he was moved back into his home in Goodnestone Road on Tuesday, September 3.

During his birthday celebrations, Dale - who first found fame after being told off for whistling on his rounds and became a celebrity overnight when town folk demanded he carry on with his tunes - was in great spirits and thanked all of those who had attended.

He told KentOnline: “The key to a long life is my service to the community which I think God has seen and has let me continue for so long.

“The fresh air I get also has prolonged my life, I am sure of that.”

He added that one of his fondest childhood memories was befriending a 36-year-old downed German pilot who he had helped pull from a ditch in Iwade during the Second World War when he was around 11 years old.

Cllr Tim Gibson, Leader of Swale Borough Council, said Dale is “without a doubt a true inspiration” to people living across Swale.

He added: “His exploits have in fact been recognised not just locally but regionally and nationally including the award of BEM, and I am proud to say that Swale Borough Council marked his commitment to our community by presenting him with the mayor’s lifetime achievement award.

“As he celebrates his ninetieth birthday, I would like to place on record my thanks and gratitude to him for everything that he has done for the people of Swale.”

Meanwhile, Cllr Ben J Martin, Mayor of Swale, said: “Dale is far more than a Sittingbourne legend; he is known across Swale for his fundraising exploits and for bringing a smile to all.

“I join the whole borough in wishing Dale a very happy 90th Birthday, here's to many more to come.”